Tau Gamma Phi fraternity has publicly urged its members linked to the hazing death of 19-year-old maritime student Mark Kenneth Alcedo in Cavite to surrender to authorities, as pressure mounts from government officials and law enforcement. The fraternity condemned the incident and expressed condolences to the victim’s family.

MANILA — On Friday, March 6, 2026, Tau Gamma Phi issued a statement calling on its members allegedly involved in the fatal hazing of Alcedo, a first-year student at PNTC Colleges, to face the law. 

“We strongly condemn the event that happened last March 1. We also would like to offer our sympathy and condolences to the family who is right now experiencing difficult times,” fraternity spokesperson Martin Asturias said during a briefing in Manila.

The incident occurred in General Trias, Cavite, where Alcedo reportedly underwent initiation rites that led to his death. Local officials confirmed that one suspect had already surrendered earlier in the week, but dozens more remain at large.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla issued a stern ultimatum, demanding that 21 individuals tagged in the case surrender or face the “full force of the law.” He warned that police manhunts would be launched if suspects failed to cooperate.

Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. and Region IV-A Director Brig. Gen. Kenneth Lucas confirmed that authorities are closing in on the suspects. They assured the public that justice will be pursued and that the fraternity members involved will be held accountable.

The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter enforcement of the Anti-Hazing Law, with lawmakers and advocacy groups demanding harsher penalties and better monitoring of fraternities. The case has also drawn widespread outrage, as hazing-related deaths continue to plague student organizations despite existing legal prohibitions.

Alcedo’s wake in Cavite has become a focal point for grief and anger, with family, friends, and supporters calling for justice. His death underscores the persistent dangers of fraternity initiation rites and the urgent need for cultural change within such organizations.

Authorities reiterated that surrendering voluntarily would allow suspects to face due process, while evasion would only intensify police operations against them. The fraternity’s public appeal, combined with government pressure, signals a growing consensus that accountability must be enforced to prevent further tragedies.

This case in Cavite highlights the ongoing struggle against hazing in the Philippines and the importance of ensuring that fraternity culture aligns with the law and respect for human life.

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